Alligator Energy Ltd Secures Critical Regulatory Milestone for Samphire Uranium Field Recovery Trial, Paving the Way for a Definitive Feasibility Study
Wednesday, June 18, 2025
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Alligator Energy Limited advances its Samphire Field Recovery Trial, securing key environmental approvals and nearing finalized construction contracts. This strategic step de-risks future production, marking an important milestone on its path toward expanded development and growth opportunities.
Alligator Energy Ltd has provided an update on its progress toward obtaining final regulatory approvals for an in-situ Field Recovery Trial at the Samphire Uranium Project near Whyalla in South Australia. The project is aimed at confirming critical production parameters for future operations, including in-situ chemistry, hydrogeology, uranium recovery rates, and reagent utilization, which will also inform economic and environmental assessments. The trial is set to last three to four months, pending the receipt of the approved operating procedures from the state energy regulator, with key developments anticipated to occur by late the third quarter of 2025.
The company has made significant strides in engaging with regional authorities. Since lodging the operating plan in early March 2025, Alligator Energy has conducted several clarification meetings with specialists from the SA Department for Energy and Mining, the Environment Protection Agency, and the Department of Environment and Water. These meetings culminated in a Request for Information focusing on technical aspects such as hydrogeology and groundwater monitoring. A formal response to this request has now been submitted, and the company is confident that the remaining technical questions can be resolved within their proposed operating framework.
A further milestone was reached with the receipt of the Works Approval Licence from the EPA, which permits the construction of the necessary facilities for the trial. In parallel, contract negotiations with construction contractors are nearing finalisation as visits by the contractor and local sub-contractors have helped refine the project’s construction estimates and start-up procedures. This progress is expected to accelerate the trial’s commencement and subsequent de-risking of the project, paving the way for a definitive feasibility study and a future Mining Lease Application planned for the second half of 2025.
Sentiment based on the news can be viewed from two angles. On the bullish side, the active engagement with regulators, the successful attainment of key approvals, and the nearing finality of construction contracts suggest that Alligator Energy is on track to advance its project efficiently. These developments could bode well for the company if further approvals and actual trial outcomes meet expectations, providing incremental value to investors. Conversely, the bearish perspective cautions that the project still faces regulatory and technical uncertainties. Any delays or further clarifications required by the authorities might postpone the trial’s start or affect its outcomes, potentially leading to short-term volatility for stakeholders.
Overall, the announcement illustrates a careful regulatory and operational progression, marking a critical phase in the development of the Samphire Uranium Project and highlighting both significant milestones and areas where uncertainties remain.